New Hardware Revives Your Old Kitchen Cabinets

By Kelly WingardHIPhome Columnist
December 31, 1969

If you just can't stand the way your kitchen looks anymore, but your budget won't allow for a total kitchen makeover, consider accessorizing your old cabinets with new hardware. For significantly less than the cost of new kitchen cabinets, you can instantly update your kitchen's appearance and buy some time before remodeling fever sets in again.

Decorative Hardware Options for Your Kitchen Cabinets

Although kitchen cabinet hardware is designed to be functional, it can also be decorative. Because Internet stores can market to the world without catering to mainstream customers, the number of available hardware options is staggering. Manufacturers produce a variety of functional styles in several finishes, but they also create decorative hardware in whimsical and artistic designs to suit diverse tastes.

Kitchen Cabinet Design Considerations

Hardware for kitchen cabinets comes in two main types: knobs and pulls. Knobs are generally circular in shape and project from the cabinet's surface. Pulls come in a variety of shapes, such as standard, cup or bin, and drop pulls. Knobs are held in place with one screw, pulls generally require two. When pull screw holes fail to match when replacing hardware, backplates can be used to disguise the disparity.

Hardware Trends in Kitchen Cabinets

Because narrowing your hardware selection for kitchen cabinets from the endless variety of designs and finishes can be challenging, look to today's hot trends for inspiration. Shiny finishes, like polished brass and chrome, are out, replaced by finishes such as brushed or satin nickel that compliment today's trendy stainless steel appliances. Old World finishes are also hip now, such as cracked porcelain, rustic tumbled, hand-rubbed, and weathered looks.

Whether you are planning an entire kitchen makeover, refacing cabinets, or just looking for a quick style 'pick-me-up,' you can find the perfect kitchen cabinet hardware to suit your style and budget.

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About the Author
Kelly Wingard is a homeowner with 30 years of budget-minded decorating and remodeling experience.

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